Interview with Mr. O: Taking on the Special Olympics World Games

We are absolutely thrilled for our Primary PE Teacher, Mr. James Okwiri! He is on an incredible journey, taking on a management and coordination role for the Kenyan delegation at the upcoming Special Olympics World Games in Berlin. This opportunity not only allows him to lead and guide his team representing the country but also presents a valuable chance for personal growth. The World Games is a remarkable platform for athletes, coaches, and Olympians from around the world to come together, share experiences, and forge new connections. Being part of such an event is a dream come true for Mr. O.

As the Head of Delegation for Kenya, Mr. O assumes responsibility for managing and coordinating all aspects of the delegation's participation in the competition. He serves as the crucial link between the local organising committee and Kenya, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration. The team representing Kenya in the World Games is called Special Olympics Kenya, which encompasses several East African nations, including Uganda and Tanzania. Drawing from his experience as a teacher at Braeburn International School Arusha, Mr. O believes that Tanzania also has immense potential for participation in these events. He remains hopeful that in the near future, students at BISA with special needs or intellectual disabilities will have opportunities to be selected and represent Tanzania on the global stage.

For over 15 years, Mr. O has dedicated his time and passion as a volunteer coach with the Special Olympics. Throughout this period, he has focused on coaching unified partners and athletes, a concept that emphasises the inclusion of athletes with special needs alongside their unified partners without disabilities. His expertise and technical competence in this area have earned him the prestigious position of Kenyan delegation leader, not because he applied for it, but because the Special Olympics management recognised his exceptional abilities.

Expressing his immense gratitude, Mr. O feels incredibly fortunate that BISA has granted him this opportunity to embark on such a remarkable experience. He finds it challenging to put into words just how thankful he is to the school, the Head of School, the Head of Primary, and even his Head of Department for recognising the value of this opportunity for his personal growth. He considers it a great honour to be chosen to participate in the World Games and is truly humbled by the chance to represent his country on this global stage.

As a school, we are incredibly proud of Mr. Okwiri and his achievements. Seeing one of our own take on such a significant role in the World Games fills us with immense joy and a sense of accomplishment. Mr. O's dedication, passion, and expertise as a coach and leader have shone through, and we are grateful to have played a part in his journey. We wish him the very best in this incredible endeavour and will be cheering him on as he represents on the world stage.